Nail Care

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When cutting your dog’s nails always clip from the side taking a little off at a time to ensure you are not cutting into the quick. Cutting from the side rather than from the top avoids squeezing down on the dogs nail which can be painful. The quick is identified by seeing a pink spot (on white nails) and a black spot (on black nails) at the centre of the clipped nail. When you see this spot you should stop cutting. If you accidently cut the quick try not to panic; there will be a sudden rush of blood so it is important to help stop the blood flow. This can be done by using a coagulating powder or corn starch powder pressed against the bleeding nail and holding it there for approximately 3-4 minutes. This should stop the nail from bleeding. Don’t wipe the powder away from the tip of the nail as this aids the coagulation process. Once the bleeding stops try to keep your dog off its feet for at least 30 minutes to avoid the quick starting to bleed again. If you cut deep into the quick and find that the blood does not stop after 20 minutes then contact your vet immediately to determine why clotting is not happening. If your dog’s toe becomes swollen or irritated after cutting the quick you should also consult your vet. Try to file your dog’s nails after trimming to remove some of the sharpness, this avoids you getting scratched if your dog jumps up on you post nail clipping.

If you are uncomfortable cutting your dogs nails your groomer can provide this service, you should visit them once a month or as your dog requires.